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Liposomal Lactoferrin Exerts Antiviral Activity against HCoV-229E and SARS-CoV-2 Pseudoviruses In Vitro
Sabina Andreu1,2, Inés Ripa1,2, Raquel Bello-Morales1,2
1Department of Molecular Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin, 2 Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
A limited number of effective therapies are currently available to treat human coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and other human coronaviruses, which are responsible for nearly a third of global cases of the common cold. The possibility of new emerging coronaviruses demands powerful new antiviral strategies. Lactoferrin is a well-known protein that possesses anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities, and it has previously shown antiviral activity against several viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. To increase this antiviral activity, here we present bovine liposomal lactoferrin. Liposomal encapsulation of the compound was proven to increase permeability, bioavailability, and time release. In the present work, we compare the antiviral activity of free and liposomal bovine lactoferrin against HCoV229E and SARS-CoV-2 in vitro and in human primary bronchial epithelial cells, and we demonstrated that the liposomal form exerts a more potent antiviral activity than its free form at non-cytotoxic doses.
Insights
Liposomal lactoferrin shows enhanced antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and other human coronaviruses. This novel formulation offers a promising strategy for developing new therapies against common cold viruses and emerging coronavirus threats.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Biochemistry
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, cause significant respiratory illnesses, with limited effective therapeutic options.
- Lactoferrin, a naturally occurring protein, exhibits known anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antiviral properties.
- Previous research indicates lactoferrin's potential antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the enhanced antiviral efficacy of liposomal bovine lactoferrin compared to free lactoferrin.
- To evaluate the activity of both forms against human coronavirus 229E (HCoV229E) and SARS-CoV-2.
- To assess the antiviral potential in both in vitro settings and human primary bronchial epithelial cells.
Main Methods:
- Preparation and characterization of bovine lactoferrin encapsulated in liposomes.
- In vitro antiviral assays using HCoV229E and SARS-CoV-2.
- Assessment of antiviral activity in human primary bronchial epithelial cells.
- Evaluation of cytotoxicity of both free and liposomal lactoferrin formulations.
Main Results:
- Liposomal encapsulation of bovine lactoferrin was confirmed to improve permeability, bioavailability, and release characteristics.
- Liposomal bovine lactoferrin demonstrated significantly more potent antiviral activity against HCoV229E and SARS-CoV-2 compared to free lactoferrin.
- Enhanced antiviral effects were observed at non-cytotoxic doses for the liposomal formulation.
Conclusions:
- Liposomal encapsulation is an effective strategy to enhance the antiviral potency of bovine lactoferrin.
- Liposomal bovine lactoferrin represents a promising therapeutic candidate for treating infections caused by SARS-CoV-2 and other human coronaviruses.
- This approach offers a potential new avenue for developing novel antiviral strategies against emerging viral threats.
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